May 25, 2006; 04:11 AM KDDI Corporation announcedan
agreement with Google Inc. to incorporate Google's search engine into
KDDI's EZ Web Internet service for au mobile phones, beginning in July
of this year. The search service, which will synthesize content aimed
at both mobile phones and PCs, is the first of its kind in Japan. The
adoption of Google's search engine will make EZ Web searches easier
while enabling direct access to information sought by users.
The tie-up will lead not only to the improvement of existing search
engines, which target content aimed exclusively at mobile phones, but
provide an extensive search service that also targets content aimed at
PCs. In addition, KDDI's content information management will enable
users more direct access to the information they seek. Consider, for
example, a search for information about an artist: In the past, a
search would turn up links to relevant content in officially designated
categories, forcing the user to perform further searches in each
category. However, the new service will provide direct access to music,
applications, books and magazines, shopping and other information
related to the artist.
Additionally, through the use of Google's proprietary search
technology, text advertisements based on search terms are displayed
alongside search results, enabling the provision of targeted
information, including advertisements, that addresses the needs of au
users.
Going forward, KDDI and Google will strive for rapid improvement in
search functionality, enabling simple and direct access to a wide range
of information via mobile phones and in doing so, enhancing their
usefulness. Through the development of such innovative services, the
partners are seeking to invigorate Japan's mobile Internet market.
|